Feature: Energy
Businesses must review their energy
strategies as energy prices rise By Joanne Skinner, Commercial Director, Fusion 360
W
ith a combination of geopolitical tensions, supply constraints and global demand
shiſts driving volatility in energy markets, many UK firms are already feeling the effects in their energy bills. Whilst short-term options to reduce costs might be limited, there may be an opportunity for businesses to make lasting savings by reviewing their energy strategy. Market-driven pricing means faster and sharper price increases, especially for businesses using high volumes of energy. Te risk doesn’t show signs of diminishing, so a pivot to more efficient technologies and on-site renewable energy can provide the solutions.
Higher unit costs Many businesses are reporting higher unit costs for energy, particularly at contract renewal, with variable and flexible
Unlike consumers, UK businesses do not have the protection of a government energy price caps
contracts most vulnerable. Prior to the recent conflict involving Iran, energy prices were already experiencing upward pressure due to the Ukraine conflict, global inflation and wider market factors. As well as unit costs, standing charges are also increasing, but, unlike consumers, UK businesses do not have the protection of a government energy price cap. Still, firms can make changes now,
which swiſtly pay dividends. Birds-eye view of most commercial and industrial
estates already reveals a widespread adoption of solar PV panels, which now produce a significant proportion of the energy businesses require. Adopting more efficient technology such as on-site solar or wind energy and low energy lighting and heating will help firms limit the impact and lower costs. Equally, the on-site charging of electric vehicles with solar PVs is dramatically reducing businesses’ exposure to higher electricity costs, or worse, rising petrol, diesel and oil prices.
Added pressures As energy prices become more volatile, we are also seeing the cost of solar photovoltaic panels experiencing upward pressure, so it’s advisable businesses should act early to mitigate potential increases. Changes to tariffs and subsidies, alongside
rising demand, are starting to influence the cost of renewable energy technology. By acting now, businesses can secure current pricing and begin reducing their reliance on rising energy costs sooner.
www.electronicsworld.co.uk May 2026 37
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44
